Siddapur: A 15-year-old wild elephant that had been stranded for two days in a pond inside a coffee estate near Kannambadi, close to Thithimathi, walked out on its own and is now under the watch of Forest Department officials.

The tusker entered the coffee estate owned by Kallichanda Raja on Monday evening and became trapped in the middle of the pond, unable to climb out due to the muddy terrain.

After being alerted by residents, Forest officials visited the spot and found that the elephant appeared to be unwell. They said, any attempt to force the animal out of the pond could have endangered its life and decided to monitor it instead of intervening immediately.

The decision drew criticism from some residents, who urged the department to take immediate steps to rescue the elephant.

However, before any intervention became necessary, the animal managed to climb out of the pond on its own and moved into the adjoining coffee plantation.

Speaking to Star of Mysore, Thithimathi Range Forest Officer (RFO) Gangadhar said, heavy rainfall and the pond’s location in a slushy paddy field made it impossible to deploy heavy machinery such as an earthmover.

“The team monitored the elephant, waiting for it to move on its own, as direct intervention in the deep water and mud was not feasible,” he said.

He explained that elephants suffering from injuries or stomach ailments often remain in water to ease their discomfort, describing it as natural behaviour. Gangadhar said, the animal will remain under observation for the next two days and if any health issues arise, veterinary treatment will be provided.

Once the elephant is found to be healthy and fit, the Department plans to guide it back into the forest, where it is expected to rejoin a herd led by a radio-collared elephant. Deputy Conservator of Forests (DCF) Kirubananthan was present during the operation.